UN Backs Historic Climate Crisis Ruling, Despite US Attempts to Stop Resolution
The US, Russia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia – some of the highest oil-producing nations and major greenhouse gas emitters – opposed the measure.
TL;DR
- The UN General Assembly voted 141-8 to adopt a resolution backing a world court opinion on countries' legal obligations to address climate change.
- The resolution affirms a July 2025 advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that states are obligated to reduce fossil fuel use and tackle global warming.
- The US, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Yemen, Liberia, and Belarus opposed the resolution.
- Australia, Germany, France, and the UK were among the 141 countries voting in favor.
- Pacific island nations like Vanuatu and Tuvalu are disproportionately affected by climate change and advocated for the resolution.
- The US stated the resolution included inappropriate political demands relating to fossil fuels and saw no basis for the Secretary-General to report on the legal issues.